I’m importing some designer fashion brands to sell online. What should I do about my returns policy?

I’m importing some designer fashion brands to sell online. What should I do about my returns policy? How can I keep customers onside but also ensure they don’t take me for a ride?

To run a successful online store it’s important to alleviate any fears that customers may have when purchasing online compared to a physical store – which is quite common with those who are new to online shopping.

The most commonly cited fear customers have is not being able to “try-before-you-buy” to see if the product is the desired one.

This obstacle can be overcome by allowing the customer to take the showroom into their own personal space, be it at home or in their own office, by offering things such as detailed information, quality photos, specifications – and a rock solid, 100% no questions asked, returns policy.

You simply have to back your products 110%, and support all purchases with a returns policy.

If your products, prices and service are right, the costs of an appropriate return policy should be readily manageable.

Five years ago when we started selling furniture online at Milan Direct, people told us we were crazy.

Many friends and acquaintances would often say “Who in their right mind would purchase a piece of designer furniture without first touching, feeling, sitting on it?”

Well, looking back I’m happy to say that so far over 100,000 highly satisfied customers have done so at Milan Direct, with all purchases made with the peace of mind knowing that if they are not 100% satisfied with the product or simply change their mind, the item can be returned for a refund, minus the shipping charges.

We pride ourselves on offering both a seven-day money back guarantee plus back all products with a free 12 month product warranty, with extended warranty options of three and five years also available.

Do some people take advantage of this generous returns policy? Probably. But they are the 1%. For the most part, 99% of your customers are honest people and are just looking for some extra piece of mind.

In all these years of selling furniture online we have seen hardly anyone take us up on the seven-day money back guarantee.

Why? Because the majority of our customer’s expectations are exceeded once they see the product and are impressed by the quality.

This often leads not to returns but to repeat purchases. A great way to do business.

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Since 2010 StartupSmart has been Australia’s no.1 publication for the startup community and those interested in the startup movement globally. Publishing news, information and advice daily, and placing itself squarely at the centre of the government’s national innovation agenda, StartupSmart is a leading participant in the momentum that surrounds the world’s focus on technology, creativity and entrepreneurialism.